HomeNews roomNews releasesTelefilm Canada increases feature film production and marketing financing for Indigenous talent to $4 million annually

Telefilm Canada increases feature film production and marketing financing for Indigenous talent to $4 million annually

February 7, 2017

Montreal, February 7, 2017—Following its announcement of November 11, 2016 regarding gender parity measures for feature film production financing, Telefilm Canada is now pleased to announce a concrete initiative, also developed in collaboration with the industry, to provide increased support for Indigenous filmmakers. Most notably, as of April 2017, Telefilm is increasing the feature film production and marketing financing made available for creators from Canada’s Indigenous communities to $4 million annually over the next five years.

“It is clear that we need to do more to support the impressive breadth of Indigenous talent in our country,” said Carolle Brabant, Telefilm Canada’s Executive Director. “And in terms of demand, Canada’s Indigenous population is young and growing fast. As well, with greater desire amongst audiences for quality content on different platforms, there is growing interest in Indigenous content, nationally and internationally.

“Following the successful consultation process for our gender parity initiatives, we took the same collaborative approach with the Indigenous community. The talks are very positive. We’ve been talking to creators from across the country, and we’re grateful for the support of our Indigenous Micro-Budget Production Program partners. Next, we will be meeting with filmmakers during the upcoming Berlin International Film Festival NATIVe program.”

Including Indigenous representatives in decision-making processIn addition, the following initiatives are in development. First, Telefilm will create a jury process, with Indigenous representation, for project recommendations (while respecting conflict of interest policies). And secondly, Telefilm is committed to hiring staff from Indigenous communities.

About Telefilm Canada—Inspired by talent. Viewed everywhere.Celebrating 50 years in 2017, Telefilm is dedicated to the cultural, commercial and industrial success of Canada’s audiovisual industry. Through funding and promotion programs, Telefilm supports dynamic companies and creative talent at home and around the world. Telefilm also makes recommendations regarding the certification of audiovisual treaty coproductions to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, and administers the programs of the Canada Media Fund. Launched in 2013, the Talent Fund accepts private donations to principally support emerging talent. Visit telefilm.ca and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/telefilm_canada and on Facebook at facebook.com/telefilmcanada.